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On August 24, 2024, the government introduced the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), which will come into effect from April 1, 2025. Currently, government employees are part of the National Pension Scheme (NPS), which is based on market-linked investments. Before 2004, pensions were provided under the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
The introduction of NPS in 2004 replaced OPS, which led to dissatisfaction among employees. As a response, the government introduced UPS, offering assured pension benefits. Only current NPS subscribers, including retirees, can opt for UPS.
In this article, we explore the key features of UPS, NPS, and OPS, their differences, and help you decide which one might be the best option for you.
What is the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)?.jpeg)
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The UPS, introduced in 2024, provides a guaranteed pension, family pension, and a minimum pension for central government employees, with potential expansion to state employees. NPS subscribers can switch to UPS, which guarantees 50% of the average basic pay over the last 12 months before retirement for employees with at least 25 years of service. A minimum monthly pension of Rs. 10,000 is ensured for those with at least 10 years of service. Upon the pensioner's death, 60% of the pension will be given to the family.
What is the National Pension Scheme (NPS)?
Launched in 2004, the NPS replaced the OPS for government employees and was later extended to all citizens. It offers various market-linked annuity schemes, allowing individuals to invest regularly and receive annuities post-retirement. Subscribers can withdraw 60% of the accumulated corpus as a lump sum, while 40% is invested for annuities. NPS does not guarantee a fixed pension, as returns depend on market performance.
What is the Old Pension Scheme (OPS)?
Before NPS, the OPS provided a guaranteed pension based on the employee's last basic salary and years of service. Pensioners received benefits with periodic Dearness Allowance (DA) revisions. In case of the pensioner's death, the family would continue receiving the pension.
Comparing UPS, NPS, and OPS:
| Particulars | UPS | NPS | OPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eligible employees | Government employees | Government employees, individuals (18-60 years), NRIs | Government employees |
| Pension amount | 50% of average basic pay over last 12 months for employees with at least 25 years of service | Depends on investments and corpus | 50% of last drawn salary and DA |
| Minimum pension | Rs. 10,000 per month | Depends on investments | Rs. 9,000 per month |
| Gratuity | Provided along with lump sum | Not available | Up to Rs. 20 lakh |
| Family pension | 60% of pension to family upon pensioner's death | Depends on corpus and annuity | Family receives pension |
| Employee contribution | 10% of basic salary | 10% of basic salary | None |
| Risk factor | Risk-free, assured pension | Market risks involved | Risk-free, assured pension |
| Tax benefits | No clarity yet | 60% of corpus tax-free, remaining 40% taxable | No tax benefits |
| Inflation protection | Adjusted based on inflation index | No automatic DA increment | DA revision twice a year |
Which is Better for You – UPS, NPS, or OPS?
UPS offers a balance between the benefits of NPS and OPS, providing assured pensions along with inflation adjustments. It’s ideal for those seeking financial security without market risk.
For employees who are comfortable with market investments and have time before retirement, NPS can offer potentially higher returns but comes with risks. UPS, on the other hand, is suited for those nearing retirement or unwilling to take market risks.
Ultimately, if you prioritize guaranteed income post-retirement, UPS is a stable choice. If you have expertise in market investments and are looking for potentially higher returns, NPS could be the right fit.
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